Help me help you: Designing photography workshops that are worth the trip

Moab's Mesa Arch

A behind-the-scenes look at how destination photography workshops come together

Let’s start with a simple truth: most photography workshops require travel. The landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences that inspire photographers aren’t usually local—and that means every workshop has to be thoughtfully designed from the ground up.

My goal has always been to create destination photography workshops that are intentional, immersive, and worth the investment of time and travel. Not just trips to beautiful locations, but well-planned experiences that support learning photography, creativity, and flexibility in the field.

This is very much a help me help you process.

Super Moon, Arches National Park Balanced Rock
Moki Dugway Photography

Why travel changes everything for photography workshops

When a photography workshop involves travel, the planning extends far beyond capturing great images. It requires designing an entire experience—one that begins long before anyone arrives on location.

That includes:

  • Building a clear, informative workshop page with details on locations and subjects

  • Selecting appropriate hotels and accommodations

  • Coordinating vehicles and transportation

  • Sharing realistic information about locations and conditions

  • Creating an itinerary that flows geographically and creatively

Each element must support both the photography and the overall workshop experience, ensuring participants have a seamless and inspiring journey.

Moab, Utah Photography Workshop

Designing workshops for real-world conditions

A strong photography workshop isn’t rigid—it’s adaptable.

Weather changes, light shifts, and conditions evolve. Physical abilities vary across participants. A well-designed itinerary needs structure but also room to pivot.

When I plan a workshop, I focus on:

  • How locations flow day-to-day

  • Where flexibility is needed

  • Balancing time in the field with learning and rest

  • Ensuring accessibility and enjoyment for the entire group

The goal isn’t to control every moment. It’s to create a framework that allows creativity and learning to thrive, even when plans change.

Photography Gallery in the Garden District, New Orleans

Turning ideas into experiences people commit to

I often hear exciting ideas for photography workshops—unique destinations, dramatic landscapes, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I take those ideas seriously and explore what it would actually take to make them work.

That means researching:

  • Seasons and light conditions

  • Access to locations

  • Accommodations and transportation

  • Skills that can realistically be taught in the environment

The challenge isn’t dreaming big—it’s designing workshops that participants are genuinely ready to commit to.

Van rolling across the West Desert in Utah.

Help me help you

This is where I need your honest perspective—not dream trips, but real-world decisions.

When you consider a destination photography workshop, I’m curious:

  • Where would you actually travel for a workshop?

  • What matters most: destination, subject, or learning outcome?

  • How long should a workshop be to feel worthwhile?

  • What makes a workshop feel truly “worth it”?

  • What moves you from “interesting” to “I’m in”?

Your input helps me design better photography workshops, aligned with what photographers truly want, not just what looks good on paper.

Dayak dancers in Borneo, Indonesia
Fishermen in Central Borneo

Designing better workshops together

Photography workshops succeed when expectations and reality align. Clear communication, thoughtful planning, and honest feedback lead to stronger experiences for everyone involved.

If you’re willing to share your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you.

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This is very much a help me help you moment—and your perspective shapes what comes next.

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Notes from the field: Vietnam through my lens — and yours

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From the Bayou to Vietnam (and Beyond): Photography Adventures that Inspire